Official history of Ballymena United launched this Thursday

All supporters are welcome to the club’s free night of nostalgia which will include all the trophies won by Ballymena United over the years, footage of memorable goals and games and plenty of familiar faces all in one place for one night only!

As well as the book launch DJ Davy King will be hosting a lively debate as part of our Legends Evening section of the event.

Taking part in the Legends Evening are an illustrious quartet of former Ballymena United players; Dessie Loughery, Graham Fox, Mark Carlisle and joint club record appearance holder Eddie Russell.

“We have been overwhelmed by the support for the launch of this book since we confirmed it was happening,” said author and supporter Neil Coleman, who has chronicled the history of the Showgrounds club in what he describes as “a labour of love”.

“This is more than just your standard football history book; this is a unique story that needed to be told of a football team and community that been through it all.”

“There is definitely something for everyone in the book, from the most ardent Ballymena United supporter to those with merely a passing interest in local football or a family member who played for the club,” adds Neil

With over 300 images in his Sky Blue encyclopaedia the book includes the full historic record of all results, players and goalscorers dating back to the original Ballymena FC in 1928, which has been produced for the first time. This allows readers to re-live the famous the 1958 Irish Cup winning team through the trophy laden 1980s right up to the County Antrim Shield win in 2012.

The book launch will take place at the Des Allen Suite of the Ballymena Showgrounds on Thursday 15 October at 7pm.

Supporters will get to walk through time with a montage of historic goals, a parade of old club jerseys and the collection of all the trophies won by the club on display.

“It promises to be a really special evening in the history of this great football club,” said Neil.

Entry to the Legends Evening and Book Launch will be free and those in attendance will also be some of the first to get their hands on the publication as books will be available thanks to the Ballymena United Development Committee.

Books will be available online via www.ballymenaunitedfc.com from Friday.